ZIMBABWE Environmental Law Association (Zela) research fellow Leon Dzumbira says legal accountability can foster a transparent and responsible mining environment.
This comes as Zimbabwe’s mining sector is rich in gold, platinum, diamonds, lithium and other precious minerals, which remain the country’s top forex earners through exports.
Mining accounts for more than 60% of exports and contributes about 15% to the gross domestic product.
Speaking during a recent workshop on Promoting Accountability in Natural Stone Mining in Murewa, Dzumbira said legal accountability entailed strengthening regulatory frameworks, enforcing transparency and ensuring that mining companies operated responsibly.
“Legal accountability is the backbone of a responsible mining sector. It ensures that companies operate with integrity, transparency and accountability, as strong regulatory frameworks are essential to prevent environmental degradation, protect community rights and promote sustainable mining practices,” he said
During the workshop, experts revealed that the integration of legal accountability into the mining sector could also enhance community engagement and ensure that the rights of local populations are respected.
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For instance, regulations that mandate community consultation and equitable compensation can empower marginalised groups, including women, to have a voice in mining decisions that affect their lives. This not only promotes social equity but also contributes to the overall stability and sustainability of mining operations.
“Thus, the governance of Mines and Minerals Act [Chapter 21:05] is crucial in shaping the landscape of resource management, as it establishes the framework for prospecting, exploration and mining activities, while also delineating licensing requirements, royalty structures and penalties for illegal mining,” Dzumbira said.
“Effective regulation not only ensures sustainable resource extraction but also protects the rights of communities and the environment.
“While the Environmental Management Act [Chapter 20:27] mandates that all mining projects undergo comprehensive environmental impact assessments to evaluate potential effects on ecosystems and communities, this regulatory framework is essential for managing pollution and preventing land degradation, ensuring that mining activities are conducted responsibly and sustainably.”
He said the Public Finance Management Act [Chapter 22:19] ensured transparency and accountability in the management of revenues from mining by setting clear rules for financial reporting and oversight of mining-related funds.
“This framework is vital for fostering trust and integrity in the utilisation of resources, ultimately promoting sustainable development in the sector,” Dzumbira said.
He added that a robust legal framework could help combat corruption and illicit activities that had plagued the sector, such as mineral smuggling, illicit financial flows and unregulated mining practices.
Previously, Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion minister Mthuli Ncube is on record stating that the country is losing over US$100 million monthly from the smuggling of gold.
Mutoko alderman Kwanisayi Dende said active engagement with the legal framework was crucial for the mining community as a legacy of ethical mining practices that prioritised environmental stewardship and community welfare.
“Embracing the legal framework is essential for the mining community, as it not only safeguards your rights and interests but also fosters a culture of responsibility and sustainability,” he said.
“By actively participating in the legal processes, you can help shape a mining sector that benefits everyone and ensures the responsible stewardship of our precious resources.”